Lungwort: Description, Uses, and Precautions

Lungwort is a plant with attractive flowers that grows wild in wooded, damp areas. The plant used in the kitchen must be identified correctly, and its preparation method should be taken into account. This guide describes its characteristics, reported effects, and precautions.

Characteristics of Lungwort

Lungwort grows in damp areas. If it is sold for use, check the product label for preparation instructions. Its flowers open red and later turn purple or blue. The plant is known for its traditional uses and attractive appearance. Some sources describe it as a plant used in traditional medicine and as rich in vitamins A and C. Although it may be sold as an herbal tea, verify the identity of the plant and check the product label. People with high blood pressure are advised to use it only on a doctor’s recommendation. If preparing an herbal infusion, the amount of plant used and steeping time affect the drink’s flavor. Applying lungwort to wounds or using it to kill microbes is outside the scope of this cooking article.

Precautions

Lungwort is reported to have a laxative effect and may cause diarrhea if too much is consumed, so the amount should be limited. People with a chronic condition or who take medication regularly should consult a doctor before consuming it. If gathering it in the wild, go with an experienced person who can identify the plant. Some species are poisonous, and gathering plants without proper identification can be harmful.

How to Use and Store Lungwort

Lungwort is generally steeped as a tea using dried leaves. Add one 5 ml measure of dried herb to a cup of hot water and steep for 8–10 minutes. If using it as a powder, dry the leaves in the shade and grind them finely. Dried lungwort can retain its aroma for a long time when stored in a lidded container in a cool, dry place away from light. Moisture can cause mold, so keep the herb dry.

How to Dry Fresh Leaves

Gently rinse freshly gathered lungwort leaves under running water, then spread them on a clean cloth to remove excess water. Dry them in a shaded, well-ventilated place rather than in direct sunlight to better preserve their color and aroma. They are fully dry when crisp and brittle. Depending on the humidity, drying can take a few days to about a week. Transfer the dried leaves to a jar and seal it tightly rather than leaving them hanging in bunches; this helps preserve freshness longer. A glass jar protects the herb from moisture and foreign odors better than a plastic container. Writing the drying date on the jar also makes it easier to track freshness.